As a special education teacher, you have to be prepared for anything and everything. You’re there for your students when they need that extra bit of support or guidance on their learning journey, and it can often feel overwhelming! One big part of successful inclusion strategies is finding sensory solutions that work for each student – this is where sensory chewelry comes in.
We know how hard it can be to find the perfect piece of stress-relieving gear, so we went out and got advice from some experts: special ed teachers who are navigating classroom challenges every day! Here’s what they had to say about the best sensory chewelry options available today.
What is Chewelry?
Chewelry is a type of aid designed to help special education students who may carry anxiety or stress and need something to focus on. Typically, chewelry consists of items such as necklaces or bracelets made from safe materials that can be chewed on without danger.
These items come in different colors, shapes, and sizes to appeal to children of all ages, allowing them the option to choose their favorite!
Chewelry can be an effective way for students to self-regulate and maintain concentration both in and out of the classroom.
Safety Considerations When Using Chewelry in the Classroom
When selecting sensory chewelry for special ed students, it’s important to keep safety in mind. After all, these items are designed to be fiddled with and chewed, so it’s essential that they do not break or create a choking hazard.
To ensure the highest level of safety, look for sturdy designs made from FDA-approved materials and avoid any beads or ornaments which may come loose easily.
It is also a good idea to check if the product has undergone third-party testing and is certified safe before making a purchase.
Favorite Sensory Chewelry
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Krypto-Bite Chewable Gem Necklace
Y-Chew
Grabber
Brick Stick
Super Star Chew
Saber Tooth Chew
Chew Tags
All in all, chewelry can be a great sensory tool for special ed students, especially those with sensory dysregulation issues. However, there are some important safety considerations to take into account in order for chewelry to be used properly and safely.
Make sure the product is made from non-toxic materials, and always supervise those using it. Remember that different materials will yield different levels of wear and tear, so choose an item that works best for the individual child’s needs.
Finally, and most importantly, never leave children with chewelry unattended, as mouth-related injuries can occur with prolonged use. With these things in mind, however, chewelry can be a very effective choice for providing calming and grounding assistance to special ed students in need of sensory stimulation.
